Discover why the 2025 Nissan KICKS stands out as the superior choice among subcompact crossovers. Serving Tulsa and Broken Arrow residents with honesty and care since 1946, Jackie Cooper Nissan proudly presents a thoughtful comparison between the 2025 Nissan KICKS and its competitor, the 2025 Kia Soul. Our detailed analysis highlights the KICKS' balanced blend of modern design, advanced technology, and proven reliability, helping you make the smartest decision for your family's next vehicle.
Table of Contents
- Overview and Endorsement
- Vehicle Lineup and Segment Positioning
- Performance and Handling Insights
- Exterior Styling and Presence
- Interior Space and Comfort Features
- Technology and Connectivity Features
- Safety Systems and Certifications
- Fuel Economy and Practical Efficiency
- Everyday Practicality and Cargo Space
- Value and Ownership Considerations
- Final Thoughts and Visit Invitation
Overview and Endorsement: The Smarter Urban SUV
When choosing a subcompact crossover, families around Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and beyond seek a vehicle that blends dependable performance with thoughtful features and a warm driving experience. The 2025 Nissan KICKS leads the segment with its comprehensive safety suite, enhanced drivability, and spacious practicality—without compromising fuel economy or technology.
While the 2025 Kia Soul offers a distinctive, boxy style and competent standard features, it lacks the advanced drivetrain options and cutting-edge safety technologies available on the KICKS. The Nissan's optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system adds confidence for Oklahoma's changeable weather, a benefit unmatched by the front-wheel-drive-only Soul.
With refined engineering and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer value, the 2025 Nissan KICKS holds a clear advantage. At Jackie Cooper Nissan, we invite families from Tulsa and Broken Arrow to experience the difference firsthand by scheduling a visit at 9898 S Memorial Dr, Tulsa, OK 74133 or calling us at (918) 921-6531.
Vehicle Lineup and Segment Positioning: Defining the Smart Choice
2025 Nissan KICKS: A Modern Subcompact SUV
The freshly redesigned 2025 KICKS marks Nissan's second generation in this competitive segment, boasting increased dimensions, a more spacious cabin, and a modernized exterior. Available in three well-appointed trims (S, SV, SR), the KICKS offers both front-wheel drive and the segment's standout option—Intelligent AWD—making it exceptionally versatile for Oklahoma's roads.
2025 Kia Soul: Subcompact Crossover with Distinct Personality
The 2025 Kia Soul maintains its characteristic boxy design and urban appeal. While it provides multiple trims from LX to the sporty Soulmate Special Edition, it remains limited to front-wheel drive and has seen minimal engineering changes recently. This model prioritizes interior space and customization but falls short in dynamic performance and drivetrain variety.
| Specification | 2025 Nissan KICKS | 2025 Kia Soul |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Subcompact SUV | Subcompact Crossover |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD, AWD | FWD only |
| Engine | 2.0L Inline-4 (141 hp, 140 lb-ft) | 2.0L Inline-4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Starting MSRP | Approx. $22,430 | Approx. $20,490 |
| Trims Available | S, SV, SR | LX, S, GT-Line, EX, Soulmate |
| Wheelbase | 104.9 inches | 102.4 inches |
| Overall Length | 171.9 inches | 165.2 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches | 6.5 inches |
| Available AWD | Yes | No |
The Nissan KICKS' added length and ground clearance provide better stability and off-pavement capability compared to the Kia Soul. That extra traction and versatility come at no cost to fuel efficiency or interior comfort, underscoring its competitive edge.
Performance and Handling Insights: Confident and Efficient Drive
Powertrain and Acceleration
The Nissan KICKS equips a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) delivers smooth acceleration, with the front-wheel-drive model covering 0-60 mph in an engaging 8.9 seconds. The AWD variant, while slightly heavier, still offers reliable acceleration tuned for traction and stability, a feature especially valuable during Tulsa's rainy seasons.
Meanwhile, the Kia Soul's 2.0-liter engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft torque but lacks an AWD option and clocks a comparable 0-60 mph time near 8.3 seconds. While powerful on paper, the Soul's front-wheel drive limits its sure-footedness in less-than-ideal conditions commonly seen in Broken Arrow winters.
Ride Comfort and Handling
The KICKS is praised for its nimble handling and comfortable suspension setup, which balances agility with a smooth ride over urban roads and light rough patches encountered around Tulsa's outskirts. In contrast, the Kia Soul focuses more on ride comfort but with less responsive cornering dynamics.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Specification | 2025 Nissan KICKS FWD | 2025 Nissan KICKS AWD | 2025 Kia Soul FWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 141 hp | 141 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT | CVT |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 8.9 | 10.4 | 8.3 |
| Top Speed (mph) | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Braking Distance (70-0) | 176 feet | 176 feet | 161 feet |
| Skidpad Grip (g) | 0.84 | 0.84 | 0.91 |
The KICKS balances solid acceleration with competent braking and trustworthy grip, crafting a driving experience well-suited for both daily commutes and weekend adventures in Tulsa's varied roads.
Exterior Styling and Presence: Modern Elegance Meets Bold Identity
The Nissan KICKS showcases a fresh design language for 2025. Its lengthened body and wider stance offer a confident road presence, complemented by signature LED lighting and available roof rails on the upper trims. The SR trim's striking 17-inch alloys and painted grille carve a distinctive, upscale SUV look that appeals to modern families prioritizing style with substance.
The Kia Soul maintains its unique, boxy avatar — appealing to those who appreciate its individualistic charm. However, its angular design may feel somewhat dated compared to the subtle sophistication of Nissan's redesign, which better aligns with today's contemporary aesthetic preferences across Broken Arrow and Tulsa neighborhoods.
| Exterior Feature | 2025 Nissan KICKS | 2025 Kia Soul |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Length | 171.9 inches | 165.2 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches | Approx. 6.5 inches |
| Wheel Options | 16- to 19-inch alloys and steel wheels | 16- to 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Roof Rails | Available on SV and SR trims | Not available |
| Signature Lighting | LED headlights with daytime running lights | LED headlights standard |
The KICKS' improved ground clearance makes it attentive to practical needs like road debris and ride smoothness on uneven surfaces, benefiting drivers across the Tulsa metro area.
Interior Space and Comfort Features: Thoughtful Design for Daily Life
Nissan has thoughtfully expanded the KICKS' interior, increasing front and rear shoulder room while optimizing knee room for rear passengers. Standard Nissan Zero Gravity seats enhance comfort, and the cabin benefits from premium touches such as stitched dashboard accents and available leatherette upholstery in the SR trim. Ambient LED lighting and flat-touch climate controls further elevate the atmosphere.
The Kia Soul, with its cavernous cabin and upright seating position, offers the advantage of roomy front and rear legroom. However, rear seats do not fold flat, tempering its cargo versatility. Interior materials are durable, though Nissan's upgrade choices create a more refined, inviting environment for Tulsa families.
| Interior Measure | 2025 Nissan KICKS SR AWD | 2025 Kia Soul EX |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 94 cubic feet | 101 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (rear seats up) | 24 to 30 cubic feet | 24.2 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (rear seats folded) | 50 to 60 cubic feet | 62.1 cubic feet |
| Rear Seat Folding | 60/40 split, flat | 60/40 split, not flat |
| Heated Front Seats | Available (Premium package) | Available on higher trims |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Available (Premium package) | Not available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Available on SV & SR trims | Power sunshade sunroof available |
The KICKS' practical cargo openings, wider rear hatch width, and flat-folding seats enhance loading efficiency for bulky items, perfectly suited for active families and lifestyle needs across Broken Arrow.
Technology and Connectivity Features: Advanced and User-Friendly
Equipped for today's connected lifestyle, the 2025 Nissan KICKS offers state-of-the-art infotainment technology. The standard 7-inch touchscreen grows to a 12.3-inch digital monolith display on higher trims, seamlessly integrating with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium Bose audio system with UltraNearfield headrest speakers surrounds passengers in crystal-clear sound, uncommon for this class.
Connectivity is complemented by multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and remote engine start with intelligent climate control, accessible via the MyNISSAN app—features empowering Tulsa drivers with control and convenience.
The Kia Soul's technology package is competitive, featuring an 8- to 10.3-inch touchscreen and available premium Harman Kardon audio. Wireless charging and navigation are also available at higher trims, but the Soul's infotainment hardware generally feels less integrated than Nissan's latest offerings.
| Technology Feature | 2025 Nissan KICKS SR | 2025 Kia Soul GT-Line / Soulmate Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Base Touchscreen Size | 7.0-inch | 8.0-inch |
| Upgraded Touchscreen | 12.3-inch | 10.3-inch |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard on SV and above | Standard across trims |
| Premium Audio System | Bose UltraNearfield (10-speaker) | Harman Kardon (6-speaker, optional) |
| Wireless Charging | Available on SV and SR | Available on mid and higher trims |
| Remote Engine Start | Available (Premium package) | Available on S trim and above |
The seamless blend of user-friendly displays and advanced audio/audio integration positions the KICKS as a leader in technology comfort at Jackie Cooper Nissan in Tulsa.
Safety Systems and Certifications: Unwavering Commitment to Protection
Safety is a priority for Oklahoma-area families, and the Nissan KICKS delivers peace of mind through its comprehensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite. Standard features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams. The SR trim enhances driver support further with ProPILOT Assist—marking the first time this semi-autonomous system is offered in the model's lineup.
By contrast, the 2025 Kia Soul delivers solid active safety with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping, and blind-spot detection but lacks AWD traction and the advanced semi-autonomous features of ProPILOT Assist. It holds a favorable IIHS Top Safety Pick rating but scores slightly lower in NHTSA crash outcomes.
| Safety Feature | 2025 Nissan KICKS SV/SR | 2025 Kia Soul S and above |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan Safety Shield 360 / Kia Drive Wise | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard |
| ProPILOT Assist (Lane Centering + Adaptive Cruise) | Available on SR | Not available |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available on SR | Optional on higher trims |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | Projected 5 stars (2025 update) | 4 stars |
| IIHS Top Safety Pick | Winner for post-July 2024 models | Good ratings in all categories |
Nissan's dedication to active safety technologies, especially with the addition of ProPILOT Assist, reinforces the KICKS as the trusted choice for families prioritizing advanced protection in and around Tulsa.
Fuel Economy and Practical Efficiency: Balanced Economy with Power
Efficient fuel consumption is key for local drivers, and the Nissan KICKS delivers commendable ratings:
| Fuel Economy Metric | 2025 Nissan KICKS FWD | 2025 Nissan KICKS AWD | 2025 Kia Soul FWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA City MPG | 28 | 27 | 27 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 35 | 34 | 33 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 31 | 30 | 30 |
| Real-World Highway (75 mph) | Approx. 33 MPG | Approx. 30 MPG | Approx. 30 MPG |
The KICKS balances potent performance and fuel efficiency with intelligent engine management, providing a modest but meaningful edge over the Kia Soul's fuel economy, especially for those traveling Tulsa's highways regularly.
Everyday Practicality and Cargo Space: Designed for Family Life
Families in Broken Arrow and Tulsa will appreciate the Nissan KICKS' focus on cargo ease and passenger accommodation. The rear cargo opening measures 40.3 inches—the widest in its class—simplifying loading.
The KICKS' cargo volume behind the rear seats ranges from 30 cubic feet (FWD) up to 24 cubic feet (AWD due to hardware), with a maximum expanded space up to 60 cubic feet when folding the rear seats flat.
While the Kia Soul offers a slightly larger overall cargo volume with seats folded (62.1 cubic feet), its rear seats do not fold flat, limiting loading versatility. Nissan's practical rear hatch access and flat-folding seats provide a smoother experience for families managing groceries, sports gear, or suitcases.
| Cargo Capacity | 2025 Nissan KICKS | 2025 Kia Soul |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Seats Up (cu. ft.) | 30.0 (FWD) / 24.0 (AWD) | 24.2 |
| Rear Seats Folded (cu. ft.) | 60.0 (FWD) / 50.0 (AWD) | 62.1 |
| Rear Cargo Opening Width | 40.3 inches (class-leading) | Approximately 38 inches |
| Rear Seat Fold Type | 60/40 split, folds flat | 60/40 split, no flat fold |
The KICKS caters expertly to urban family life in Tulsa and Broken Arrow, combining comfortable seating with practical, easy-to-access cargo solutions.
Value and Ownership Considerations: A Wise Long-Term Investment
Jackie Cooper Nissan acknowledges that value extends beyond the initial vehicle purchase. The Nissan KICKS impresses with a Customer-Centric Ownership Package, including:
- Competitive Starting Price: Base MSRP starting near $22,430 with well-equipped trims providing excellent feature value.
- Comprehensive Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles basic coverage, 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind.
- Complimentary Maintenance: First three oil changes free within 24 months or 24,000 miles—an advantage rarely offered in this segment.
- Nissan Roadside Assistance: Manufacturer-backed, round-the-clock service with authorized technicians ensures your investment is protected in all scenarios. Contact: Nissan Roadside Assistance: 800-647-7261.
While the Kia Soul offers a longer limited powertrain warranty (10 years / 100,000 miles), it lacks complimentary maintenance programs and AWD availability—two important ownership benefits for Oklahoma drivers.
Additional savings can be realized by valuing your current vehicle with our convenient Trade Valuation tool. Should you require parts or maintenance, our dedicated Parts Department and Service Department are here to assist, all at our trusted Tulsa location.
Final Thoughts and Visit Invitation: Experience the Nissan KICKS Advantage Today
The 2025 Nissan KICKS emerges as the smarter, more versatile choice for Tulsa and Broken Arrow drivers seeking a subcompact SUV that harmonizes style, safety, technology, and fuel efficiency. Its Intelligent AWD option, advanced driver-assistance features, and spacious, refined interior distinguish it from the 2025 Kia Soul, which remains limited by front-wheel drive and less sophisticated systems.
We invite you to explore our extensive inventory at Jackie Cooper Nissan:
- Discover our new Nissan lineup at All New Vehicles.
- Explore quality pre-owned options including select models under $25k via All Used Vehicles Under $25k.
Schedule your personalized test drive to see why the 2025 Nissan KICKS is earning praise throughout the Tulsa community. Visit us today at 9898 S Memorial Dr, Tulsa, OK 74133, or call (918) 921-6531 to speak with our caring team.
At Jackie Cooper Nissan, we take pride in helping Tulsa-area families find the vehicle that fits their needs with honesty and warmth—just as we have since 1946.
© 2025 Jackie Cooper Nissan